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2012–2013 XU40 (2nd generation, final years)

2012–2013 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity and Key Specifications

The 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander tows up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Fuel tank 19.2 gallons. Curb weight, fuel economy, ground clearance and other key numbers for the 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander, by engine and drivetrain.

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Quick answer

The 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander tows up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, and weighs about 4,045 lbs at the curb. Engine, axle ratio, cab and bed configuration all move the real number down, the door-jamb placard for your exact build governs.

2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key specs

SpecValue
Towing capacity (max)5,000 lbs
Fuel tank19.2 gallons
Fuel economy20 city / 25 hwy (2.7L FWD); 18/24 (3.5L FWD); 17/22 (3.5L 4WD); 28/28 (Hybrid). Fuel tank: 19.2 gal gas, 17.2 gal hybrid.
Curb weight4,045 lbs
Ground clearance8.1 in
Key fob batteryCR2032 (smart key and remote-head key)

2012–2013 Toyota Highlander engines

EngineTrimsPowerFuel
2.7L 4-cylinder (1AR-FE)Base/Plus (FWD only)187 hpRegular 87 octane
3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)Base, SE, Limited (FWD or 4WD)270 hpRegular 87 octane
3.5L Hybrid (2GR-FXE, AWD e-Four)Hybrid, Hybrid Limited (AWD only)280 hpRegular 87 octane

Which Toyota Highlander model years does this cover?

These specs specifications apply to every Toyota Highlander built from 2012 through 2013 — the XU40 (2nd generation, final years), mid-size 3-row crossover suv. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.

What changed during the 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander

  • 2012Carryover of the 2011 facelift (revised fascia, PSX26W fog lamps). Towing: 5,000 lbs V6 with factory tow prep (3,500 without), 1,500 lbs 2.7L, 3,500 lbs hybrid
  • 2013Final XU40 year; subject of the 14V-148 second-row seat recall

2012–2013 Toyota Highlander specs: common questions

How much can a 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander tow?

Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. That is a maximum for the best-configured version, engine, axle ratio, cab and bed configuration, and towing package all move the real number down, and the door-jamb placard plus the towing guide for your exact build is what governs.

How big is the fuel tank on a 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander?

19.2 gallons.

What does a 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander weigh?

About 4,045 lbs at the curb, before passengers and cargo.

What gas mileage does a 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander get?

20 city / 25 hwy (2.7L FWD); 18/24 (3.5L FWD); 17/22 (3.5L 4WD); 28/28 (Hybrid). Fuel tank: 19.2 gal gas, 17.2 gal hybrid. on the EPA cycle.

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